Woohoo!!! SunGod18 we finally agree on something!!!!
hehe
06ch2,
If you want an integrated look and feel, you will need to get the unit from Honda.
If you are just looking for XM radio in the car, stay with the retail package. Another advantage to the retail package is you can take it with you (office, home, rental/loaner car, etc.) With the integrated unit, you are stuck with it in the car and if you want another unit for home or office etc it will cost you more + additional subscription fee.
I hope Honda will release a HD Radio interface to replace my XM tuner. I am just using my three month free subscription now and do not have plans to renew it. I don't know why Manufactures just don't opt to give you 1 - 3 years paid subscription though or why XM couldn't make a "basic" level subscription with limited sampling of stations...